Cost of feeding a family of four: $146 to $289 a week

8:07 PM,
May 2, 2013

Shopping with a list, buying items on sale and sticking with fruits in season are three budget tips.

Written by

Nanci Hellmich, USA TODAY

The cost of feeding a family of four a healthy diet can run $146 to $289 a week, according to the latest numbers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

That's based on preparing all the meals and snacks at home for a couple with two school-aged children. It doesn't include one-dollar deals at fast-food restaurants or splurges at pricey restaurants.

The USDA uses national food intake data and grocery price information to calculate different costs for a healthy diet at home. The latest numbers for a four-member family: a thrifty food plan, $146 a week; a low-cost food plan, $191 a week; a ...